Title 1 School Donation Mural
Client: Garfield Elementary School
Location: North Park, San Diego
December 2024
While I find something to love about every mural we do at Pandr, there is something extra special about transforming a blank wall into something magical for young students to enjoy. The world has been a little cuckoo recently, so in an effort to shine a little light during the holiday season we reached out to Garfield Elementary School, a local (to me) Title 1 school in San Diego, and asked if we could donate a mural.
From the beginning, the Pandr team worked closely with the PTO and principal of the school to brainstorm a mural that would resonate with all the students, families, and faculty of Garfield Elementary. The principal chose the words “joy,” “kindness,” and “belonging” and then I got to work designing a graphic that would bring it all to life and ensure the words packed a punch! Once we settled on a design and picked up the paint (very generously donated by Sherwin-Williams), we got to work installing the mural - and thats when the magic really started.
One of the most rewarding parts of this experience was the reaction from the students. Each day after school, as I worked on the mural, kids would stop and watch in awe. Their enthusiasm was contagious! I’d hear exclamations like “Wowww, that’s so realistic!” and “I can’t believe she’s painting the building!” Moments like these reminded me why I love what I do—art has the power to spark curiosity, creativity, and joy. The “holiday spirit” was alive and well and truly warmed my heart and filled my cup.
Hearing such positive feedback from the PTO was the cherry on top:
"Phoebe with Pandr Design is a joy to work with. She is organized, a great communicator and extremely talented. There’s nothing more I could ask for in a muralist. Her craftsmanship, creative vision and work ethic is impeccable and stunning. From the beginning design stages to implementation, I was blown away. I’m an interior designer and am stoked to have found her. Any future murals that may come my way in my line of work, she’s my gal. I can’t recommend this company enough. Phoebe will not disappoint!"
This project was more than just painting a wall—it was about building a connection with the students and the school community. Seeing their excitement and knowing that this mural will brighten their days for years to come is an honor I’ll cherish forever.